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REDLANDS: Redlands rail committee gets underway

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Redlands to Rail working group meets for the first time on Thursday, May 23 at the University of Redlands. At center is Supervisor James Ramos. (Contributed Photo)

San Bernardino County Supervisor James Ramos has started a working group to discuss plans to extend rail service to Redlands.

It is a diverse group, with representatives from the University of Redlands, the cities of Redlands and Highland, the Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce, LomaLindaUniversity, Inland Action and the Inland Empire Economic Partnership.

They held their first meeting on Thursday, May 23 at the University of Redlands Armacost Library.

One of the groupâ€™s objectives is to make will sure the rail service project moves ahead. Members plan to stay on top of it so it doesnâ€™t languish and lose out on funding opportunities.

Redlands City Councilman Jon Harrison said the group should look beyond the economic benefits the new transit service could foster in the rail lineâ€™s right-of-way. The group took his suggestion and will examine regional economic developments, as well.

The Redlands Passenger Rail Project â€” developed by SANBAG, or San Bernardino Associated Governments â€” would extend the passenger rail line from west San Bernardino to east Redlands, with numerous stops in between.

SANBAG estimates construction on the Redlandsâ€™ portion of the project could begin in 2016.

This story is developing. Be sure to check back at pe.com for updates.

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